Gratitude Song Rankings [2026]

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 4636rank/position

Nogizaka46 'The Meaning of Goodbye'

This is the song you’ll want to listen to when you want to carry not only the sadness of parting but also gratitude for having met.

Released in November 2016 as Nogizaka46’s 16th single, it is also known as Nanami Hashimoto’s final single as center.

It became the group’s first million-certified release and was performed at the 67th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that year.

It’s a track especially suited for those facing graduation and feeling anxious about being separated from dear friends.

Its warm message sinks in, teaching us that “goodbye” isn’t merely an ending but a stepping stone to becoming stronger.

As a cherished anthem that gives you the courage to take a new step, why not send it to a friend who’s setting out on a new journey?

Letter ~To My Beloved~Fujita Maiko37rank/position

Maiko Fujita “Letter ~To My Beloved You~” Music Video (Full Version)

This song by Maiko Fujita, a singer-songwriter from Nagoya, released in 2013, seems to have become a staple at “Rui-katsu,” events where people refresh their mind and body by having a good cry.

Of course, it also fits perfectly for the scene of reading a letter to one’s parents at a wedding.

The lyrics honestly express straightforward gratitude to one’s parents, and the piano-and-vocal performance gives it a charming, atmospheric feel.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

Report a problem

RPGSEKAI NO OWARI38rank/position

SEKAI NO OWARI「RPG」

A signature song by SEKAI NO OWARI, featuring lyrics that liken life to an adventure and a dreamlike sound.

The beautiful lyrics depicting starry skies and the sea convey a poignant sense of what’s been lost, along with a strong will to keep moving forward.

Released in May 2013 and used as the theme song for the film Crayon Shin-chan, it was the band’s first anime tie-in.

It’s a track we especially recommend to those who value bonds with friends and staying true to themselves.

Why not look up at the sky and think of someone important to you while you listen?

Don’t bloom.WHITE JAM39rank/position

[This year's No.1 graduation song] [MV] Don't Bloom / WHITE JAM [Blackboard Art Ver.]

Every time the season of partings arrives, I find myself wanting to listen to WHITE JAM’s ballad.

The lyrics, packed with the desperate feeling of not wanting to be apart even while wishing happiness for the one setting out, tighten my chest.

Released as a single in February 2016, it spread on social media alongside a video featuring chalkboard art and drew broad empathy, even topping rankings on lyrics search sites.

Later included on the album “WHITE JAM BEST,” this song is a perfect classic to send as a message of thanks and encouragement to friends at graduation or embarking on a new chapter.

Best FriendNishino Kana40rank/position

Best Friend

A friend who stays with you through good times and bad.

This is the friendship song that makes you want to express your gratitude to such a friend.

The unadorned words to a best friend who understands you better than you understand yourself really touch the heart.

Painted with honest, down-to-earth feelings, this track was chosen as the official campaign song for NTT Docomo’s “Cheer Up, Exam Students ’09–’10,” released in February 2010, and later included on the smash-hit album to LOVE.

It’s a work by Kana Nishino that resonated with many, even reaching No.

3 on the Oricon chart.

When you’re hitting a milestone in life—like graduation or moving up a school—and have to part ways with a dear friend, try sending the gratitude you’re usually too shy to say along with this song.

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai41rank/position

Dai Hirai / The Way Home in March (Lyric Video)

This is a memorable ballad that warmly depicts the scenery of graduation season.

With his gentle voice, Dai Hirai delicately sings about the subtle emotional sway that mixes joy and loneliness at the moment of departure.

Expressing the complex feelings that come with life’s milestones like advancing to a new stage or graduating, alongside the calm scenery of spring, the piece is also notable for its elegant arrangement of piano and strings.

Released digitally in February 2022, it is also included on the album “LOVE＋PEACE.” It is a song that resonates with the arrival of spring, offering comfort to those setting off into new environments and to those parting from cherished friends.

If you laugh at the skywacci42rank/position

wacci 'If You Laugh at the Sky' Short Ver.

A cheer song filled with friendship and gratitude.

Released by wacci as a digital-only single in November 2018, the track gained attention mainly on social media and resonated especially with junior and senior high school students.

While portraying twilight scenes and memories of youth, it gives you the courage to look ahead with lines like “Don’t cry, hold your head high, lift your face and smile.” The lyrics, which sing about the importance of the journey of effort and the bonds with friends, will surely stay close to the listener’s heart and give them a push forward.

Why not listen to it when you want to express thanks or encouragement to a friend, or during farewells such as graduation ceremonies or weddings?